When a physician is faced with a serious health problem such as a blood clot causing severe tissue damage, the modern answer is a classification of medication known as thrombolytic drugs. The use of thrombolytics has become a fairly standard treatment for patients suffering from particular conditions or health accidents. Specifically, thrombolytics administered to combat certain types of stroke, heart attacks, and pulmonary embolism have often proven successful in preventing catastrophic damage and even in saving lives.

While there are several benefits to the use of thrombolytic medication, it is not widely considered a wonder drug by any means, specifically due to the medication's side-effects. These are usually tied to an incomplete or improper diagnosis, as a physician may miss a major indicator that thrombolytic drugs should not be used. Nevertheless, the side effects associated with thrombolytic drugs include allergies to the treatments and even strokes. These medications are most effective when used immediately when a clot is found and become less effective as time passes.

One of the most dangerous uses of thrombolytics is when the drugs are utilized to fight the progression of a clot-based, or ischemic, stroke, despite the presence of a brain hemorrhage actually causing the stroke. By mistaking or ignoring the cause of the stroke, the prescription of thrombolytic treatments may cause the internal bleeding to become more intense, worsening the patient's condition.

Another condition that forces the use of an alternative treatment is prior exposure to thrombolytic medication. If the patient has already been treated with thrombolytic drugs, anaphylaxis, or an extreme allergic reaction, may develop. As a result, the patient's internal organs and major systems may sustain significant damage, further complicating any present conditions and creating a severe risk of death.

Other concerns such as high blood pressure, the prescription of anticoagulants, or even near proximity to a prior surgery can cause level-headed doctors to rightfully skip thrombolytic treatments. However, if you have been injured by a negligent physician's choice of thrombolytic medication as a primary means of treatment, there may be legal options available to you.

To learn more about holding a doctor whose care injured you accountable for his or her actions, contact a medical malpractice attorney. A lawyer can help you gather the evidence you need to make a solid case against the irresponsible medical professional who injured you, as well as assist you in your pursuit of justice and compensation.